I just bought this 68 Lesabre 4dr 400 and the trunk lock cylinder is hollowed out. I have see straight through the whole. The thing is the trunk is latched and I can't get in. I don't see anything in that hole to trigger with a screw drive to open. How the hell do I get in this trunk so I can remove that lock cylinder to begin my search for a replacement.
Remove the back seat, both cushions. Now, have a light rest in the trunk and get some long long 3/8" ratchet extensions and a 7/16" socket. Remove the 2 screws holding the latch and the trunk will open. Then you can solve your problem. You will need to remove the lock retainer and the lock will come out.
Does anyone know if this will also work for a 69 Skylark? I also have the same situation. The trunk however, is full of parts. I don't know that I will have a straight shot to the lock mechanism. ou:
Will work on all GM cars. Just remove the rear seat (both cushions). There is enough room to stick your arms through and move the items out of the way in order to access the 7/16" hex head scews holding the trunk catch.
Is it possible to just drill all the way through the lock? I have no desire to save it. I'm actually going to buy new tumblers all the way around. I was thinking, that it migh have a hook shaped plate that is screwed on to the end of the lock? If so, drilling through, the plate would fall off and the trunk could then be opened? Just thinking aloud. Slap me if need be...
No, won't work. Your reasoning is wrong. All trunk lock cylinders are held in place with a large spring clip that is similar to the letter D but elongated. You will have to remove the trunk lock cylinder from the inside as I described. If you try your idea....you will destroy the trunk lid. Also, just a note....the trunk key and glove box lock key are the same. The doors and ignition are the same.....so no need to buy a new key or keys when you do not have to do so.
George, thanks for the help. I have plenty of extensions to get to the lock. However.. there is a spare, and a door in the trunk. The spare is up against the seat back. The door is in the very back of the trunk (by the lock), but is sitting on tope of some other things. I can move the tire around, but cannot get the door to come away from the lock. It's just too wide to slide between the hinge supports. I've been moving stuff every way imaginable, and there just isn't enough room to manuever the door. If I am not able to drill out the lock, what about cutting out the seat back frame and welding it back up later? I know that will work, but if there is something else, I'm all ears. I've racked my brain trying to think of another way to get it open. ou:
Well, give it a shot.....try to drill out the lock....but be patient and careful...won't take much for a drill to get away from you and damage the trunk lid. Once you have removed most of the lock cylinder...use a flat blade screwdriver to operate the latch. I would try the drilling method first before cutting and rewelding the seat back metal.
Well i was able to make it in. I drilled in at an angle towards the top, and it opened right up. I was close, just getting nervous. Guess I only had a little bit further to go. So now to get in and finish cleaning up. Thanks for your help. :beers2:
